II. ImportanceA. A majority of your communication is nonverbal.B. Different meanings to different culturesAppearanceB. Contradict verbal messagesC. Replace verbal messagesD. Regulate verbal messages- When and how to speakTypes of Nonverbal CommunicationThe space around you that you don't want others in without permission.Be aware of personal space in the workplace.AppearanceTattoosPiercingsClothingHairIntimate: Distance for personal communication Distance: No more than 18 inches People Involved: Family, Significant Other, BEST FriendCommunication: Personal, Secret, PrivatePersonal: Distance for communication amongst friendsDistance: 18 inches to 4 feet.Sub phase 1 18 inches – 2 ½ feet FriendsSomewhat private communication. Sub phase 2 2 – 4 feetAcquaintances; waiting in a public line (teller or machineSocial: Distance used in business Distance 4- 12 feet. Very little personal communicationSub phase 1: 4 – 7 Feet. Informal business Sub phase 2 : 7 – 12 feet Formal business Strangers using a public area such as a beach.

Public: Optimal Distance used for strangers Distance 12 feet and beyondSub phase : 12 – 25 Feet. This is mostly for large business meetings, etc. Sub phase 2: 25+ This is mostly for entertainment, and politicians.Subconscious: nonverbal communication is often (not always) sent and received on a subconscious level. We are frequently unaware of the messages we send nonverballyContextual: nonverbal communication depends on the situation in which is occursAmbiguous: the meaning is open to interpretation and often confusingCultural: much of nonverbal communication has a distinct cultural natureCharacteristics of Nonverbal Communication